Stuart Little
A quick review of Stuart Little summarizes what the book covers.
Introduction
"Stuart Little" is a tale of adventure, friendship, and the quest for identity. Although Stuart is different from everyone around him, he approaches life with courage and determination. The story explores themes of family, individuality, and perseverance, all while presenting a whimsical and charming view of the world through the eyes of a very small hero.
Chapter 1: In the Drain
The story begins with the introduction of Stuart Little, a mouse who was born to a human family in New York City. The Littles are surprised but not dismayed by Stuart’s size and appearance. Despite being a mouse, Stuart is treated as a member of the family and quickly becomes involved in the day-to-day activities of the household. Early on, Stuart shows his ingenuity by retrieving his mother’s ring from a drain, demonstrating that although he is small, he is capable of great things.
Chapter 2: Home Problems
Stuart faces several challenges living in a world made for humans. He must navigate everyday objects that pose dangers to him, such as the family’s piano, which he practices daily but from the inside. Despite these difficulties, Stuart is independent and refuses to be treated differently because of his size. The Littles go out of their way to accommodate Stuart, creating a special bed for him and finding ways to include him in family activities.
Chapter 3: Washing Up
Stuart continues to demonstrate his adaptability and cleverness in this chapter. He helps around the house, but his small size leads to unique problems, such as getting caught in the refrigerator and suffering from the cold until George, his brother, finds him. The chapter highlights Stuart’s willingness to take on responsibilities despite the dangers that come with his size.
Chapter 4: Exercise
Stuart is a mouse of action and enjoys keeping fit. He exercises regularly by turning on the faucet and then shutting it off just as quickly, using the running water as a way to cool off. This chapter also shows Stuart’s love of adventure and his desire to stay strong and healthy in a world that isn’t always designed for him.
Chapter 5: Rescued
In this chapter, Stuart’s adventurous spirit gets him into trouble. He becomes trapped in the window shade and has to be rescued by his brother George. Despite this, Stuart’s determination never wavers, and he continues to find joy in exploring his surroundings and testing his limits.
Chapter 6: A Fair Breeze
Stuart’s sense of adventure takes him outside the house, where he experiences the thrill of sailing a small boat on a lake in Central Park. He captains the boat, named the Wasp, and successfully navigates it through a challenging race against a larger vessel. This chapter showcases Stuart’s bravery and skill, further cementing his status as a capable and determined individual, despite his small size.
Chapter 7: Margalo
Stuart’s life changes when the Little family adopts a bird named Margalo. The two quickly become friends, and Stuart feels a deep connection with her. Margalo is kind and gentle, and Stuart is smitten with her beauty and grace. Their friendship adds a new dimension to Stuart’s life, giving him a companion who shares his love of adventure and who also faces the challenges of being small in a big world.
Chapter 8: The Schoolroom
Stuart decides to broaden his horizons by becoming a substitute teacher at a local school. His lessons are unconventional but effective, as he teaches the children about fairness, imagination, and adventure. This chapter highlights Stuart’s wisdom and his ability to inspire others, even though he is different from them. His small size doesn’t hinder his ability to make a big impact on the students he teaches.
Chapter 9: The Automobile
In this chapter, Stuart’s adventurous spirit leads him to explore the world in a tiny car that he receives as a gift. The car is a perfect fit for Stuart, allowing him to travel quickly and independently. He sets out on a journey to find Margalo, who has mysteriously disappeared. Stuart’s determination to find his friend and his willingness to embark on a long and uncertain journey demonstrates his loyalty and courage.
Chapter 10: Margalo’s Departure
Stuart is devastated when he discovers that Margalo has left without saying goodbye. She leaves a note explaining that she was warned by a friendly cat that a dangerous bird was after her. Stuart decides to leave home and search for Margalo, beginning his quest to find his lost friend. This chapter marks a turning point in the story, as Stuart’s love for Margalo drives him to leave the safety and comfort of his home and venture into the unknown.
Chapter 11: The Search Begins
Stuart sets off on his journey with determination. He meets a variety of characters along the way, including a dentist who fixes his car and a superintendent who gives him directions. Each encounter teaches Stuart something new about the world and himself. The chapter highlights Stuart’s resourcefulness and his unwavering commitment to finding Margalo, no matter how difficult the journey may be.
Chapter 12: Ames’ Crossing
Stuart arrives in a small town called Ames’ Crossing, where he meets a girl named Harriet Ames. Stuart is immediately struck by her charm and invites her on a date. He plans a picnic and a canoe ride, hoping to impress her with his thoughtfulness and creativity. This chapter explores Stuart’s growing maturity and his understanding of relationships, as he tries to win Harriet’s affection in his unique way.
Chapter 13: A Narrow Escape
Stuart’s plans for a perfect date with Harriet go awry when he discovers that the canoe he had planned to use for their picnic has been damaged. Despite his best efforts to repair it, the canoe leaks, and the date is ruined. Stuart is disappointed, but he handles the situation with grace, realizing that not everything can go according to plan. This chapter emphasizes Stuart’s resilience and his ability to keep moving forward, even when things don’t work out as he hoped.
Chapter 14: Stuart’s Resolution
After his failed date with Harriet, Stuart reflects on his journey and his search for Margalo. He realizes that the world is vast and full of possibilities and that his quest may take him in unexpected directions. Despite the setbacks he has faced, Stuart remains hopeful and determined. The chapter ends with Stuart continuing his journey, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
Chapter 15: The End of the Journey
The story concludes with Stuart still on the road, heading north in search of Margalo. Although he has not yet found her, he remains optimistic and determined. The novel ends on an open-ended note, suggesting that Stuart’s journey is ongoing and that he will continue to face new adventures and challenges. Stuart’s unwavering spirit and determination leave readers with a sense of hope and inspiration, as he continues to search for his friend and his place in the world.
Conclusion
"Stuart Little" is a timeless story about courage, friendship, and the quest for identity. Through Stuart’s adventures, E.B. White explores themes of perseverance, loyalty, and the importance of embracing one’s differences. Stuart’s small size does not define him; rather, it is his character, his bravery, and his kindness that make him a true hero. The novel’s open-ended conclusion invites readers to imagine Stuart’s future adventures and to reflect on their journeys in life. Stuart’s story is a reminder that, no matter how small we may feel at times, we all have the potential to make a big difference in the world.
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